A delegation of Sikh community from UK calls on Minister for Auqaf Atta Manika

Lahore: A 5-member delegation of Sikh community from UK today called on Provincial Minister for Auqaf and Religious Affairs Atta Manika at the office of Punjab Investment Board Lahore. Chairman Evacuee Property Trust Board Siddique Al Farooq was also present on the occasion. The delegation comprised Sardar Sangara Singh, Sardar Autar Singh, Sardar Bildar Singh, Sardar Joga Singh and Sardar Bonder Singh.

Speaking on the occasion, Ata Manika said that Pakistan is a haven for minorities. He said Pakistan has unique honor in South Asia that minority people are living with complete freedom, peace and sense of protection. He said that along with Muslims, people of Hindu, Sikh, Christian and other religions are equally included in national mainstream of development.

He said that people of all the religions and communities are living peacefully in Pakistan. He said that the holy book of Sikhs also contains poetry of Baba Fareed Ganj Shakar. He said Pakistan has always safeguarded the religious places of Sikhs and ensured that they should not feel any difficulty in Pakistan.

Chairman Evacuee Property Trust Board Siddique Al Farooq apprised the delegation of the steps taken for the benefit of Sikh devotees. Members of the delegation told the Minister that they request Pakistan for multiple visas for visiting their religious places in Pakistan as British citizens. They further said that Sikh community of America, Britain and Canada wants to make investment in Pakistan and they request Pakistani government to grant formal permission for investment in Pakistan.

MPA Najma Afzal Khan, Secretary Auqaf & Religious Affairs Nayyer Iqbal, Commissioner Lahore Division Abdullah Khan Sumbal, Chairman Investment Board Abdul Basit, Chief Executive Investment Board Punjab, Secretary Home Punjab and other officers were also present on the occasion.